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IN BRIEF
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The Easter holidays in 2025 signal a period of renewal for ski vacations, with an unprecedented growing interest. The winter sports sector is experiencing a significant increase in bookings, particularly for the month of April. Statistics revealed by major market players, such as the tour operator Sunweb, demonstrate that this season, the number of booked ski days is rising sharply, turning April into a favorable period for ski enthusiasts.
Record demand for April
The tour operator Sunweb recently reported an impressive increase of 180% in the number of skier days sold in April 2025 compared to the previous year. Although this month accounts for relatively little of the total season, it now represents 6% of skier days, compared to just 2% in April 2024. This upward trend has also been observed in December and January, but noteworthy changes seem to be occurring in booking days during the peak season.
The reasons behind this growth
This unprecedented increase in bookings for the month of April can be attributed to several factors. First of all, many vacationers, especially those who booked during the February school holidays, had to postpone their trips due to concerns related to purchasing power. Indeed, packaged trip prices in April are generally 2 to 2.5 times lower, making this period more accessible for skiers.
A new clientele and evolving skiing habits
The clientele choosing to travel in April often differs from that of the winter months. It tends to be less focused on intensive skiing, putting more emphasis on a leisure approach, and also seeking to enjoy other activities offered by the resorts. This change is explained in part by a better quality of snow cover, noted in the last two spring seasons.
A skiing season in full transformation
The current season is not without challenges, particularly regarding competition among various types of vacations, such as cruises and long-haul trips. Nevertheless, skiing remains a passionate activity for many French people. Current trends also show a preference for shorter stays, typically six nights instead of seven. While February generally posted good numbers, resorts have noticed variations according to the prices charged.
Spring skiing as an alternative
To adapt to the growing demand, it is imperative for industry players to review their offerings. It has become crucial to propose flexible offers, which include additional activities and attractive prices. Spring skiing meets these criteria, and as long as facilities and services remain open, resorts, such as those found in Tignes (Savoie), strive to maintain a vibrant network of shops and services to make the customer experience unforgettable.
Towards more accessible skiing
The growing demand for skiing during the Easter holidays also raises the question of prices. While the assumption of increasingly higher rates looms, it is essential for companies like Sunweb to focus on accessible resorts that offer good value for money. This includes lesser-known but attractive destinations, such as Superdévoluy or Les Orres. These resorts represent a great opportunity for those looking for a ski getaway without breaking the bank.
In summary, the increasing interest in skiing during the Easter holidays heralds a promising future for the sector, thus revitalizing the image of winter sports in line with the new expectations of consumers.
